October is Cyber Security Awareness Month.

Connie Miller with DeWitt Savings Bank in Clinton indicates there are a lot of convenient methods for all our devices, and remembering passwords. She notes, though, that those aren't always the most secure practices.

In 2023, personal data, including names, emails, and passwords, was exposed for 20% of the global population across various breaches. Over 600 million people worldwide experience cybercrime each year. Roughly 33% of adults globally have been victims of a cyberattack in their lifetime, with about 10% experiencing an attack in the past 12 months alone. 
 

The DeWitt County Board last week approved decommissioning plans and complaint processes for the upcoming Revere Road and Madison Street Solar developments.

DeWitt County Board Chair Joe Witte told the Hart Media Group that these are part of the ordinances in place for DeWitt County.

The County approved an application from a while ago, but there are also four applications at present moving through the process. 
 

Local authorities are encouraging residents to be mindful of trick-or-treaters out on Friday night for Halloween.

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, Monticello Police Chief Rob Bross told the Hart Media Group, there are several busy spots around his community that trick-or-treaters frequent.

According to Chief Bross, most Monticello neighborhoods see a good amount of foot traffic for Halloween so he is encouraging motorists who are traveling with the youngsters to be very mindful of them crossing the street.

With Halloween falling on a Friday, Chief Bross anticipates some Halloween parties for the adults after trick-or-treating is over. He is encouraging responsible consumption and not to drive drunk.

Chief Bross is encouraging the community to participate in some of the activities put on by various groups in the community throughout the Halloween weekend.

Before you hit the community neighborhoods for trick-or-treating, the Lincoln Police Department is inviting the ghosts and goblins to stop by he police department facility on Fifth Street for some candy.

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, Lincoln Police Chief Joe Meister told the Hart Media Group they'll be passing out candy in the parking lot of their building just off Fifth Street on the southwest side of town.

Chief Meister indicates the Department can be pretty busy on Halloween night with kids getting into some innocent pranks and trouble.

Trick-or-treating in Lincoln is from 5 pm to 8 pm. 

As travelers begin to prepare for one of the busiest travel days of the year, one thing they may not have to worry about is gas prices.

With an expected 71 million Americans planning to hit the road for Thanksgiving, Patrick DeHaan from GasBuddy predicts a drop in prices at the pump. Just how much of a drop? That's still up in the air with a looming Hurricane and trade negotiations.

After a fire at a refinery in Northwest Indiana, prices at the pump in Illinois could reach below three dollars next week.

According to DeHaan, prices typically drop in the fall as refineries switch to a winter blend of fuel for colder months.

It’s called the Farmers 2050 contest. Offered to FFA chapters by Nutrien Ag Solutions. Brian Knifong (knife-ong) says more info is available at farmers2050.com.

The top 3 chapters will receive $1000, $500, and $250, respectively.

The National FFA Convention is set to wrap up soon in Indianapolis. The RFD Radio Network's Jim Taylor has this report

The Warner Hospital has made its biggest investment since the renovation of its emergency room. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, CEO Paul Skowron told the Hart Media Group that they had been operating on the oldest version of their electronic medical records system for the last eight years, and it was time for an upgrade. He says the updated version will go live this Friday at midnight. 

Skowron asks for patience from the community as they figure out the new system and make sure that hospital visitors are able to access their records. He adds that there will be a big effort to make sure their records are current as they make the transition. 

While $2 million may seem like they overpaid for a software update, Skowron notes that this is on the cheaper end of the spectrum. He adds that it's about finding the right fit, almost like buying a car. 

Skowron states that the development of AI has increased the frequency that updates, but feels that this system should work for them for at least the next five years. 
 

Governor JB Pritzker was in Taylorville on Wednesday morning to sign an executive order helping farmers.  

The Governor spoke at Ben and Linda Curtin’s farm in Taylorville to talk farming, the ag crisis, and what Illinois is doing to help farmers. Governor Pritzker says that due to President Donald Trump’s tariff’s a lot of countries aren’t buying corn and soybeans like they used to, and it’s hurting Illinois farmers. 

Governor Pritzker is concerned over the President promising help and not delivering which is why Illinois is stepping in.  The Governor says Illinois is on their side. 

The executive order declares an agricultural trade crisis.  This order's State Agencies to help farmers in any way possible, including providing resources and tools available to help farmers. 

Jerry Costello, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, says that he encourages farmers to reach out if they need help. He urges farmers to call 1-833-FARM-SOS or 1-833-327-6767. 

The Governor says that President Trump is more concerned about working with Argentina and other South American countries.  Governor Pritzker says that tariffs have cost Illinois farmers, and while it may not matter to the President, it matters to him. 

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and local advocacy organizations across the country are taking the opportunity to spread awareness of this topic.

Often swept under the rug because of the sensitive nature of the topic, October highlights the battles of those who have survived dangerous situations and recognizes those who have not. Andrea Kocher is the Director of Services at Willow Tree Missions in Piatt County and indicates this year's theme gives a voice to everyone in a situation of abuse.

According to Kocher, domestic violence is more than physical abuse in relationships. There is emotional, financial, and verbal abuse.

Part of Domestic Violence Awareness month is addressing stigmas around the topic, and one of those is the victim should just leave the relationship, but Kocher says, while that makes sense, it is often much, much more complicated than that.

Children often play a crucial role in a victim remaining in a relationship for fear of what would happen to their children or uprooting them. Kocher says it can be particularly heartbreaking because kids can have development stunted, and learned behavior is not healthy behavior. 

Kocher indicates in Piatt County, they continue to see alarming numbers of abuse locally and the need for their services.

You can learn more about Willow Tree Missions by visiting WillowTreeMissions.org or finding them on Facebook.

Halloween is a holiday of fun and candy; however, it is important to remember to enjoy in moderation and limit food waste. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday, Caitlin Mellendorf, Nutrition Educator with the University of Illinois Extension, told the Hart Media Group that parents should remember to give their trick-or-treaters some substantial food before they go out, so they are not filling up on candy all night long. 

While your child may want to eat all their candy in one night or soon after the holiday, parents should remember the candy has a long shelf life, especially if it is frozen. Mellendorf mentions that sometimes freezing the candy even makes it better. 

One of the most wasted foods this time of year is the pumpkins that are used to decorate. Mellendorf says that Pumpkin Smashes are a common event that allows responsible composting of our Halloween gourds and is a fun opportunity to let off some steam. 

Learn more about preventing food waste and enjoying treats in moderation by visiting extension.illinois.edu/dmp. 

This Halloween, make sure to only accept treats that are sealed from the factory and stay in neighborhoods that you know and are familiar with. 

Local authorities are sounding the alarm about an increasing challenge in detaining juveniles who are a threat to public safety.

On the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday, DeWitt County Sheriff Mike Walker told the Hart Media Group when a juvenile commits a crime, they are taken into custody by local authorities, but finding detention centers to hold these individuals is becoming increasingly difficult.

According to DeWitt County Probation Officer David Beery, there are juveniles in DeWitt County with multiple offenses who are in homes and in the community who pose public safety threats because the process they have in place is breaking down.

Beery says many of these juveniles are openly threatening harm to people around them, and he believes these are very credible threats to the safety of those individuals being threatened.

Beery adds, facilities near and far are saying they are either full or cannot take the individuals because of other challenges. In the meantime, most individuals are being released to their parents and back at threatening public safety. 

The two officials are encouraging you to contact your local lawmakers to implore Springfield to intervene. They are grateful for the support they have from those lawmakers on the issue and are aware it is going on. 

Halloween is Friday night, and local authorities are sending out annual trick-or-treating reminders.

Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers indicates the neighborhood adjacent to Clinton Elementary School is usually the busiest spot in Clinton for Halloween activities.

Trick-or-treating hours in Clinton are from 5 pm to 8 pm. Chief Lowers is reminding the young trick-or-treaters to have costumes that do not drag near their feet and may cause them to trip. 

While homemade candy is becoming less and less common in today's world, the Chief continues to remind to make sure the youngsters are only consuming factory-wrapped candy.

Chief Lowers encourages motorists out in busy areas of any community to be mindful of the young kids out for Halloween, and everyone to be safe this Halloween.

It's the 98th annual FFA Convention in Indianapolis, IN. 

The RFD Radio Network's Jim Taylor highlights some of the success stories of Illinois FFA members at the National level.

The FFA Convention wraps up later this week.

While the goal of any 4-H Program is for it to be student-led and run, there are still some skills and knowledge that leaders need to have. 

Henry Craft, 4-H Youth Development Educator with the University of Illinois Extension in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties, explains that all of their network's 4-H leaders were brought together to discuss what they and their chapters need. He notes that while it was called a training, it was more of a collaborative workshop. 

Craft and his counterpart, Haley Jones, spoke at the training on topics like the 4-H Thriving Model, Club Vibrancy, and Youth Voice and Choice. All of these subjects are ways that 4-H can be a better, more welcoming, and thriving place for students. 

At its essence, 4-H is a youth-run program. Craft encourages leaders to take ownership of the way kids are getting leadership opportunities. He notes that it is on leaders to make sure those opportunities are valuable. 

Learn more about 4-H in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties by visiting extension.illinois.edu/dmp or by finding them on Facebook. 

A little overnight rain Tuesday night is going to give way to a sunny and cool finish to the week, leading up to Halloween.

On the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln told the Hart Media Group the rain moving through the area is not going to be as significant as once anticipated. 

The rest of the week should be rather pleasant. Shimon indicates we are in for sunny skies starting later in the day on Wednesday, and that should last all the way through the weekend.

October has been very dry and warm. Keep it to the Hart Media Group this week to hear from Ed on just how dry we currently are in parts of central Illinois. 
 

Between Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday, mixed with the holidays, the Better Business Bureau is noticing an uptick in scams.

While these dates are considered the most essential retail days of the year, the Better Business Bureau says it's a prime opportunity for scammers to attack those looking for a deal. Don O'Brien, a scam investigator at the B-B-B, says watch out for those deals that are too good to be true.

According to the B-B-B, nearly 80 percent of holiday shoppers turn to online methods to find the best deal, which is a prime opportunity for scammers. The best tips to beat the fraudsters are to review the return policy and warranty information.

Oftentimes, scammers leave out that information, leaving you stuck with the item and no return policy.

Halloween falls on a Friday this year. What does that mean for those in the pumpkin and fall agritourism business?

Jenna Spychal is with Jonamac Orchard in Malta.

It was a busy Monday afternoon for the Clinton Fire Department, which responded to two simultaneous fires on Clinton’s east side. 

Crews were called to a garage fire at about 3 PM in the 600 block of East Adams Street. Public Safety Commissioner for the City of Clinton, Dan Ballenger, says it was not long before the fire spread to the rest of the house and ignited the roof, causing a call for more manpower. 

The Fire Department was paged out to a separate garage fire around 4:15 pm. Ballenger says the garage in the 400 block of Clinton Street was extinguished swiftly with extensive damage. 

According to Ballenger, the dry weather and the breezy afternoon made the day a challenge, noting they had a tree catch fire near one of the structures at the initial scene.

One firefighter was transported to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation. There were no other injuries or fatalities at either scene.

At the time of this story, crews were still on scene at East Adams Street, and Ballenger anticipates they would remain on scene well into the night. 

The causes of both fires are still under investigation at this time. 

The Neighborhood Care Center was among the agencies helping provide relief to first responders. 

While this time of year, students are typically busy with midterms and making it to Thanksgiving break, superintendents are finalizing their districts' budgets. 

Blue Ridge Schools Superintendent Ryan Peyton indicates that his district is using what is called a "Conservative Budgeting Model." This means that they are overestimating their expenses and underestimating their revenue, so they can plan the budget and worry less about coming up short. He mentions that wind farms make up a big part of the funding for the district.

Peyton explains that while there are still conversations to be had about what wind farm dollars can go towards, he says that they are always looking for ways to offset the burden on local taxpayers. The district gets around $70,000 a year from Piatt County's one-cent sales tax, half of which they use to reduce taxes. He expects to receive a similar amount now with the same tax in McLean County

Peyton has been hearing rumblings of potential cuts to the funding that they receive from the State. He hopes that the increased EAV of the district due to wind development can offset some of those losses. 

The first-year Superintendent is grateful for the resources and former "supes" who helped him learn the budget process. He admits that he is still learning and that there may be amendments in the future. 

Learn more about Blue Ridge Schools by visiting blueridge18.org or by finding Blue Ridge Schools on Facebook. 
 

In early November, it will be one year since Piatt County established a 708 Mental Health Board with funding to support initiatives across the County.

On the WHOW Morning Show Monday, Piatt County Mental Health Center Executive Director, Tony Kirkman, told the Hart Media Group, a lot has been accomplished in the last year, including starting to sort out where the funding they will receive is going to be directed.

Kirkman admits the first year had a lot of learning to be done for himself and the eight-person board that has been established. However, he anticipates the Board finding a groove going into the second full year and the excitement of helping groups and people in Piatt County through the dollars they will collect.

While Kirkman is the Executive Director of the Piatt County Mental Health Center, he is not employed by the 708 Board and is seeking to only guide the new Board as it navigates through its first year in existence.

It was early November of last year that Piatt County voters passed a referendum that would fund the 708 Mental Health Board - an entity in place in many central Illinois counties. Kirkman has been guiding the establishment of the eight-member board since last November.

Some increased costs within the DeWitt County budget have resulted in the first levy increase for residents in several years.

DeeDee Rentmeister is the DeWitt County Administrator and indicates Social Security increases and liability insurance has increased, which notes, has resulted in about a five-cent increase in this year's levy.

The County's general fund, which pays out salaries - the largest expense for the County - remained the same from last year to this year. Rentmeister is proud of the department leaders within the County Building for being diligent in keeping costs down.

According to DeWitt County Board Chair Joe Witte, there isn't a lot of flexibility in the budget because most dollars that come into the County have a designated fund they support.

Witte points out there were some tough decisions that came with the budget this time around. He explains one is supporting the ambulance service through some struggles they are experiencing.

The FY26 budget remains on file for 30 days and will be voted on at the November Board meeting. The County Budget Committee will hold a meeting on Thursday because it did not have a quorum at its regularly scheduled meeting.

The Neighborhood Care Center was pleasantly surprised by the amount of funds they raised in efforts for a facilities project, leaving them with some money left over. 

Mandi Ries with the NCC indicates that they were less than a week away from their deadline to raise the remaining $5,000 of a $50,000 facilities renovation project for their distribution center. After one last call to action, they ended up meeting their goal, and raising an extra $8,000 to use for something else. 

Executive Director Cody Monkman explains that with those extra funds, they would like to begin an official internship program. He says the McLean County Facility has a livable area inside it, allowing them to offer free housing as a part of the program. 

Ries notes that part of the funds will be used to prepare that living space. The pair reiterate that it is a very exciting time for the Neighborhood Care Center, and they are grateful for their partnership with Constellation, which has supported many of their endeavors. 

Learn more about the services and resources offered by the Neighborhood Care Center in both Clinton and McLean County by visiting neighborhoodcarecenter.net or by finding them on Facebook. 

A University of Illinois Extension educator continues to study the issues facing independent grocery stores, specifically in rural areas. John Shadowens has been traveling the state examining the subject.

Shadowens hosted an Independent Grocer Summit in southern Illinois earlier this month at John A. Logan College.

As the fall hunting season ramps up, hunters should always make sure they have landowner permission—never assume, says Dan Skinner with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

The fall archery deer season opened Oct. 1 in Illinois. The first firearm deer hunting weekend is later next month.

Currently, chicken owners throughout DeWitt County may be in violation of an ordinance that restricts how far a coop can be from a residential property line.

At the October DeWitt County Land Use Committee Meeting, Zoning Administrator Elizabeth Weikle told the board that the Regional Planning Commission, or RPC, is reviewing those ordinances and looking into how they can be loosened. 

Nothing has been set in stone over this matter, and it was not on the agenda for the October County Board Meeting. 

Data tracking has been a project in the works for the DeWitt County Development Council since early in the year. 

DCDC Executive Director Curt Homann indicates that they signed an agreement that will give them access to grouped information for the next three years, regarding travel in and out of the County, through people's phones. Homann reminds that they do not receive any individual data. 

Homann hopes that as they begin to utilize this information to serve the County's local businesses, business owners will see the value and be willing to contribute financially to the service. 

DeWitt County and the Highway Workers Union have agreed to a two-year contract.

On the WHOW Morning Show Friday, DeWitt County Board Chair Joe Witte told the Hart Media Group they have been informed the local AFSCME union accepted the latest proposal from the County and are waiting on a few minor details to be ironed out before it heads to the County Board for approval.

The County Board could up the agreement at its November meeting. 

A solar development proposal within one and a half miles of the City limits in Farmer City was rejected earlier this year by the city council, and its leadership is imploring the DeWitt County Board to follow suit. 

The Santa Anna Solar Project is looking to develop land within 1.5 miles of the Farmer City city limits. At Thursday night's DeWitt County Board meeting, Farmer City resident Moe Winstead addressed the Board with concerns about how the solar project will affect his property.

Winstead also brought up concerns of property damage and property value. He asked if the County would be liable should the project cause damage to his property during a storm. 

Farmer City Mayor Scott Testory emphasized Winstead's point that the City has already opposed the Santa Anna Solar Project multiple times and feels they have clearly taken their stance, yet the County has not supported them. 

Mayor Testory is concerned about the possibility of stunting a community's growth by land-locking it with solar projects - a concern shared by many local officials throughout central Illinois.

The County has been in the process of reviewing a large number of solar applications that they have received in recent months. 

A McLean County school district will be seeking input from its residents to help them navigate a spending plan for nearly a million dollars of new revenue.

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, Dr. Lisa Taylor, Superintendent of Heyworth Schools, told the Hart Media Group the McLean County one-cent sales tax that passed last spring is going to provide revenue in the amount of close to one million dollars.

According to Taylor, a survey will go out on Friday to allow the community to give feedback on its priorities of how the money can be spent. She reminds this revenue is limited to certain things.

While the revenue from the one-cent sales tax is limited, the Illinois legislature expanded the use of the dollars to include paying school resource officers or counsellors. Dr. Taylor anticipates the counsellor being the top priority from the community, coming out of the survey results.

Dr. Taylor directs the community to find the survey at the district website or on its Facebook page. She estimates the survey will be live for about three weeks. 

At the Tuesday night Clinton Board of Education meeting, the Board heard from school leadership about the continued plans for restructuring Lincoln and Douglas schools to combine grade levels.

On the WHOW Morning Show, Tuesday, Superintendent Drew Goebel told the Hart Media Group the Board was updated on those plans and believes they are getting to a point, they need the Board to approve moving forward with permanent plans to have this ready for the next school year.

According to Goebel, the idea of combining grade levels to one building has been talked about for many years, and last year, it was finally acted on by the Board of Education and school leadership.

One of the driving factors behind this change is to allow the district to accept all students in the Clinton district into the Pre-K program. According to Goebel, currently, you have to qualify to get into the program.

Goebel indicates that the process is moving along enough that they are going to be seeking direction from the Board of Education very soon regarding whether this will be something that happens or gets halted.

The changes would be implemented next year if the Board of Education approves moving forward. 

Check out WHOW on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more from Goebel on this story.

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1MBq7SNQ8v/
 

The City of Clinton recently put a call out for ideas for bands on the downtown square in hopes of revitalizing the entertainment Clinton residents grew accustomed to before COVID.

The City coordinated up-and-coming Nashville artists to perform on the square, but like many things, COVID ended that tradition. City Administrator Tony Harris, on the WHOW Morning Show on Wednesday, told the Hart Media Group, they want to see those come back.

According to Harris, a downtown business owners' association is starting to take shape. He indicates they have been meeting and are starting to gain some momentum.

Harris reminds that the 250th committee is meeting next Monday inside the Council chambers at City Hall at 6:30 pm. He says anyone is welcome to come out and help plan Clinton's celebration of America's 250th. 
 

The bi-annual Book Sale at the Warner Library is this Friday and Saturday.  

The sale takes place on the library’s lower level - in the Revere Room. Ron Sprague with the Friends of the Warner Library says they have made changes to the sale hours this year, in an effort to allow educators to be able to get to the sale. 

Sprague explains they source books for sale from a lot of places, but many of them are donations from families or books from the library that are no longer popular or in good enough condition to be on the shelf. 

Money raised from the book sale goes to various projects around the Library. Sprague points to the new pavilion as a recent example, and Adult Program Coordinator with the Warner Library, Emily Dunham, says they are a big supporter of the Summer Reading Club.

Sprague adds that when they open in the morning, they typically have a line out the door. The Friends are very happy to see the interest and support that they get from the community. This has allowed the group to grow significantly. 

The Book Sale takes place this Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM and Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM in the Revere Room at the Warner Library. Learn more about the fundraiser by visiting vwarner.org or by finding the Warner Library on Facebook and Instagram. 
 

Proposed legislation by a central Illinois lawmaker would increase the tax rate for renewable energy projects.

State Senator Sally Turner filed the bill she says would ensure renewable energy projects are paying their 'fair share'.

The Lincoln Republican says renewable energy companies are getting a lot of perks to build these projects and feels taxpayers should have less of a burden on them.

Senate Bill 2706 has been filed and awaits assignment to a Senate committee for consideration.
 

If you're interested in helping the City of Clinton plan for the America 250th celebration next summer, they will meet again next week.

At the Tuesday night Clinton City Council meeting, Mayor Helen Michelassi told the community the meeting is set for Monday evening at City Hall.

Commissioner Kenny Buchanan indicated Tuesday night that he is starting to get inquiries regarding leaf pick-up. The City still has its leaf vacs, but it is too early in the season to start rolling those out.

Residents have complained to City leadership about smoking at the new Kiwanis Park and around the playground equipment. Commissioner Dan Ballenger is hoping to have 'No Smoking' notices posted around that area.

The Council approved a new dump truck for the water department at a cost of just over $40,000. Additionally, two new police vehicles were approved at a cost not to exceed $140,000. 
 

An increasing need in a Macon County school district is being addressed thanks to a $45,000 grant announced this week.

On the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, Warrensburg-Latham Schools Superintendent Cheryl Warner told the Hart Media Group, $30,000 of the total grant from ADM Cares will go to help the school afford meals for students who struggle with food insecurity.

According to Warner, there are a couple of challenges facing Warrensburg-Latham schools. One of the biggest is the decrease in funding for programs like the free and reduced lunch program. She points out, these dollars are going to help supplement those losses.

Additionally, the district is seeing an increase in its student body, and Warner points out, a portion of that student body would qualify for the free and reduced lunch program, increasing the need there as well.

School Board President Tory Williams was instrumental in helping the district secure the funding, thanks to her professional position with ADM. 

Check out WHOW on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more from Warner and Williams on this grant. 

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/19dMvLTmnw/ 
 

With the gardening season in the rearview mirror for most, the seasonal wrap-up is being highlighted by the University of Illinois Extension. 

On the WHOW Morning Show on Tuesday, University of Illinois Extension Director in Logan, Menard, and Sangamon Counties, Terri Miller-Casey, told the Hart Media Group from 1:30 to 2:30 PM today, they will host an online seminar all about reclaiming your landscape from overgrown plants and weeds. 

Miller-Casey recommends registering for the class, even if you are unsure if you will be able to attend live. This will get your name on the list for the class, which means you will be sent any resources used for you to look back on. 

While A.I. resources can be convenient, Miller-Casey states that the information is not always correct and is hard to personalize to your specific needs. That's where the Extension and its local experts come in, who are always available to answer your questions. 

There's still time to attend the 1:30 PM class. Learn more about the Reclaiming Your Runaway Landscapes seminar by visiting extension.illinois.edu/lms. 

The busy hunting seasons are nearly in full swing and local outdoor authorities are reminding hunters to be safe.

Illinois Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police Officer Noah Workman is reminding hunters to visit huntillinois.org for resources and information about any public areas they are looking to hunt on this fall.

New this year for outdoorsmen is a three-year license. Officer Workman reminds of the limits for deer.

Additionally, one of the biggest calls for caution among hunters is to make sure tree stands are secure. Officer Workman indicates they occasionally get called to the scene where tragedy has struck because a tree stand was not secured properly.

Workman reminds, for all things hunting in Illinois, visit huntillinois.org. You can also follow the Department of Natural Resources on Facebook and Instagram.

Ameren Illinois and the rest of Illinois is waiting on an Illinois Commerce Commission ruling on a proposed rate hike for natural gas delivery. 

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The utility had asked for a $131.1 million rate-hike but recently revised it downward to $128.8 million. A utility watchdog is calling for an even bigger reduction. An opinion, known as a “Proposed Order,” that was submitted to the ICC late last week by administrative law judges advises the ICC to trim $43.7 million from Ameren’s rate hike request. Citizen’s Utility Board Jim Chilsen says this would be the fourth rate increase in the last seven years.

The ICC is required to issue a ruling by December 1. Chilsen predicts it will come sometime in late November.

Although evidence of the invasive pest Spotted Lanternfly has been found in Illinois, primarily in Cook County, the impact to plant life has been minimal, says State Ag Pest Survey Coordinator Kelly Estes.

If you suspect spotted lanternfly, Estes says email the image to lanternfly@illinois.edu.

Eyes on the Mississippi River and concern with low water levels again this year, and the impact on shipping grain. Rodney Knittel (kuh-nittle) is associate director of transportation and infrastructure for Illinois Farm Bureau.

This marks the fourth consecutive year where low water levels have been a concern during the fall harvest.

The federal government shutdown continues. How is that impacting the ag industry?

Kevin Semlow is the Illinois Farm Bureau Executive Director of Governmental Affairs and Commodities.

The ongoing development of property off Interstate-74 in Farmer City recently took a step forward.

City Administrator Taylor Baxter indicates the project was approved for utility work at its City Council meeting earlier in October. The bid for the project was around $1.2 million. 

Baxter calls this a massive project that has been years in the making. He reminds it is going to be what is considered a mixed-use land with a little bit of housing and commercial development.

According to Baxter, this is another example of Farmer City looking to the future.

Baxter is hoping to have dirt moving at the site still this year, with the project to be completed in the first half of 2026. 
 

Y-Zone Extreme Days from the Clinton YMCA are right around the corner. 

On the WHOW Morning Show, Monday, Melinda Akers, Youth Program Coordinator with the Clinton Y, told the Hart Media Group that Y-Zone Extreme Days are an opportunity for students to spend their whole day at the facility. She notes that a new addition this year is the requirement of pre-registration, which helps the Y plan the activities and programming. 

Extreme days often line up with holidays, particularly for parents who need to work and have a place for their children, who may have the day off from school. Akers indicates that the next one will come up over the Thanksgiving holiday. 

Akers reminds that the cost for Y-Zone Extreme is $38.00. Learn more about childcare opportunities from the Y by visiting clintoncommymca.org. 
 

There's still one more chance for seniors to get involved with this year's Senior Academy and get information that could keep them safe. 

Jean Johanns with TRIAD says the final of the three Senior Academy sessions will take place this Wednesday at the Farmer City Outreach from 1:30 PM to 3 PM. At this session, people can learn about technology and how they can use it to remain independent. 

The event will also feature a representative from adult protective services, who will teach about the warning signs of financial exploitation. Johanns notes, unfortunately, it is often committed by a family member. 

Sylvia Comfort with DeWitt County TRIAD indicates that the program was started in conjunction with local sheriff's departments across the Country, who wanted to make sure that seniors in their community had the resources they needed. 

Join TRIAD for the third and final session of Senior Academy in 2025 at the Farmer City Outreach, located at 701 E Clinton Ave in Farmer City, on October 22nd from 1:30 to 3 PM.

With the crop out of the ground and the leaves soon to be falling out of the trees, fall driving provides its challenges at times.

Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police Officer Noah Workman reminds with the harvest in full swing, deer being active, and potentially wet leaves on the pavement, speeding is not a good idea on rural roads, now more than ever.

Officer Workman warns against driving too fast through heavily wooded areas where leaves may be on the road, causing slick conditions, especially with the season's first frosts anticipated very soon.

If you come upon a roadkill deer, you are able to claim that deer. Visit dnr.illinois.go for more information on that process or call your local DNR office. 

The 4-H Program puts a big focus on building leadership skills in students, and now teens in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties will have a new opportunity to grow those skills. 

Henry Craft, 4-H Youth Development Educator with the University of Illinois Extension, indicates that he and Haley Jones, his counterpart in Macon County, wanted to allow students to take on responsibility and flex their leadership muscles through a new program called The Teen Leadership Council. 

Craft indicates that they focus on giving tasks to students that play to their strengths while still pushing them to grow. He says that their first opportunity to do this is leading the announcing at the 4-H Awards Ceremony, as well as planning the activities and programs. 

Taking on a leadership role can be very scary for a young person, and Craft was not expecting to have more than a few students be interested. He was blown away by the number of students who wanted to participate in this program. 

You can still sign your students up for 4-H in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties. Learn more by visiting extension.illinois.edu/dmp.

Solar farms are popping up all throughout central Illinois, but what happens when they break down or stop producing?

The DeWitt County Board had the same question among all the applications they've been receiving, and at Tuesday night's DeWitt County Land Use Committee Meeting, the Committee reviewed a plan that requires the decommissioning of a solar project within 180 days of its production stopping. 

When it comes to the complaint plan, a sign will be required outside of the project featuring an email and phone number that community members can utilize to submit complaints. This is to give people a place to voice concerns about noise, construction debris, or any other grievances they may have. 

These two plans will be presented at the County Board Meeting this Thursday.

DeLand-Weldon Schools are trying to prepare students for life after education, even if they do not live in the district

Superintendent Dr. Michael Tresnak explains that next Friday, October 24th, the district will host a career fair inside the high school's gymnasium. He notes that the event is not exclusive to DeLand-Weldon students. 

Dr. Tresnak says that over the years, the expectation has become that after high school, students must go to college. He understands that this is not always the best route for a young person and feels the trades can be a good opportunity, especially with the industry's dwindling workforce. 

The career fair is during the school day next Friday, October 24th. Learn more at dwschools.org. 

Housing in Clinton is becoming a focal point for its leadership and economic development leaders.

Tony Harris is the Clinton City Administrator and explains lack of housing is an issue they are focused on addressing. One avenue they are looking into is making grants available to help renovate blighted properties. 

According to Harris, there are opportunities for TIF districts to be established to help provide funding for areas identified for development.

Harris and others recently attended a conference in Chicago where they learned about establishing several TIF districts and how those can pay off in the form of housing development. Harris credits the City's partnership with the DeWitt County Development Council in this effort.

Animal Control is a County service that is not intended to be a revenue source; however, DeWitt County has been reviewing how it can minimize the financial loss. 

At Thursday night's DeWitt County Public Safety Committee Meeting, County Clerk Dee Dee Rentmeister provided the Committee with the revenue to date from this year for Animal Control, and how it stacks up to years past. She notes that $200,000 of the $244,000 is a transfer from the County's general funds to make up for the financial loss that is taken on. 

Notably, Rentmeister points out that the transfer from the general fund of $200,000 was twice what was transferred last year for the department. This pushed the Finance Committee to suggest that Animal Control move from four 10-hour shifts per week for employees to the standard five 8-hour shifts. 

Animal Control Administrator Grace Moore indicates that veterinary services and supplies like pet food are the biggest expenses for her department. Tim Earle brought up the possibility of searching for grants, and while Moore was receptive to the idea, she noted that it can be difficult because they are a governmental organization. 

A big reason for the higher expenses in the Animal Control Facility is the increased number of people relinquishing their pets. Moore shares that there are fees for relinquishments; however, Rentmeister suggested that they could be increased. Buck Carter and John Werts pointed out that doing that could lead to more strays. 

The budget will be put on display at next week's County Board meeting; however, the Public Safety Committee can make changes before their next meeting in November, as budgets and levies will be adopted in a special meeting later that month. 

Clinton Lake was the site of an 18-team collegiate spring triathlon earlier this month.

Darren Moser is the Clinton YMCA Board President and told the Hart Media Group the collegiate spring triathlon was originally an idea to have a general sprint triathlon that ended up being collegiate-focused.

According to Moser, in the first year of the event, they had nine teams. That was in 2024. This year, they had 18 teams. They came from all corners of the country. 

Moser credits many agencies and groups coming together to make this event a huge success in its second year.

The Y says this event will remain in Clinton for a few more years, but there is a push to make Clinton the site of an NCAA Regional. Moser believes that would be an enormous opportunity for Clinton. 

Harvest time can be tough to navigate for producers, especially this year, as the fields are incredibly dry, increasing the risks of combine fires and field fires.

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, University of Illinois Extension Commercial Ag Educator Reagan Tibbs told the Hart Media Group the increased risk of field fires and combine fires has resulted in a few across the area, but thankfully nothing chronic.

Once the crop is out of the ground, producers will begin preparing the ground for the next growing season. Tibbs anticipates cover crop plans being impacted by the drought - especially if significant rain doesn't fall soon.

One of the top factors for a lack of field fires, specifically, has been the calm days with minimal wind. While some wind is expected in the next few days, Tibbs notes soil erosion is going to be a concern if we don't get some significant rain soon.

We'll have more from Tibbs next week on Regional Radio when he addresses other safety reminders for producers during harvest and discusses the latest in ag policy.
 

A local financial coach is trying to expose common scams that people are still falling for, especially the elderly. 

Connie Miller with DeWitt Savings Bank indicates phishing emails are a form of scam that has been around for a while; however, now perpetrators are using AI to make them more convincing and fool more victims. She says to be wary of any emails or phone calls that you are not expecting. 

Miller indicates PayPal scams are on the rise, it seems. She notes that this will typically show up as an invoice on your account, but again, if you are not expecting it, you should ignore it. 

Debit cards being compromised is something Miller has been noticing recently as well. They believe the card numbers could be getting purchased off the dark web, which she mentions happens more often than it used to. 

While it may seem like getting scammed is inevitable with the development of technology, Miller believes all hope is not lost, especially when you are being proactive. 

Scammers are constantly developing new methods to take advantage of people, which is why it is important to always keep up with your accounts and be vigilant for suspicious activity.

Is there a rural cemetery in your area that has been abandoned or neglected? A new state program can help. It’s called the Illinois Cemetery Relief Fund Grant says Denise Bullocks with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

The grant deadline is October 24. Again, the website is idfpr.illinois.gov.

The National FFA Convention is just a couple of weeks away. FFA members from Illinois are in the running for several big awards, says Sean Welch, Associate Director of Student Recognition for the Illinois FFA Center.

The National FFA Convention is Oct 29 to Nov. 1 in Indianapolis.

The Better Business Bureau warns of Halloween-related scams.

According to the B-B-B scam tracker, fraudsters are setting up fake websites, impersonating stores to offer significantly low prices. Oftentimes, those prices are more than 90% off, with the customer receiving no cost and the fraudsters taking all of the money. Don O'Brien is a scam investigator at the Better Business Bureau.

One tip to avoid the online costume scam: research before you buy and avoid "too good to be true" scams. And check Google reviews. O'Brien says that often someone will leave a review encouraging others to avoid the company.

Blue Ridge Schools begin the Homecoming celebrations before the school week even starts. 

On the WHOW Morning Show, Wednesday, Superintendent Ryan Peyton told the Hart Media Group that they crown the Homecoming Court on Sunday night, so they can hold the title all week long. They also induct someone who has impacted the community positively into the Blue Ridge Wall of Fame. 

Friday's Homecoming Parade will be a highlight, just as it is every year. Peyton says it's one of the biggest parades in town, and he hopes that everyone sticks around afterwards for food trucks and fellowship. 

Blue Ridge High School's outdoor athletic facilities have received a facelift, and Peyton is excited to show that off to families and alumni who attend this week's football game against the Meridian Hawks. 

Learn more about the Homecoming celebrations taking place throughout Farmer City by going to blueridge18.org or by finding Blue Ridge CUSD #18 on Facebook. 
 

Drought conditions in central Illinois continue to worsen as we continue through a very dry October.

Water levels at Clinton Lake are very low. On the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday, DNR Conservation Police Officer Noah Workman told the Hart Media Group called the busy summer season at Clinton Lake was pretty normal.

With the waterfowl season now underway, Officer Workman reminds fishermen of the closure of part of the Lake for a waterfowl refuge.

Given the dry weather of the last several weeks, many outdoorsmen have become concerned about diseases in deer - particularly EHD. Officer Workman has not been called about any potential EHD cases and says overall, the calls for potentially diseased deer have not been any higher than normal.

The fall hunting season is in full swing with archery deer season underway, waterfowl, and many more still to open over the next several weeks. We'll have more with Officer Workman next week on Regional Radio.

Solar applications have been piling up on the desk of DeWitt County's Zoning Administrator, with applicants urgently trying to get projects approved before the end of the year. 

At Tuesday night's DeWitt County Land Use Committee Meeting, Chairman Buck Carter brought up agreements for professional services from Chastain Engineering for the Revere Rd and Madison St Solar Projects, which are two projects set up within the same 68.6-acre parcel of land. Zoning Administrator Elizabeth Weikle indicated that Cummins would treat the two as a single project for billing purposes. 

Carter and Board Chair Joe Witte felt the two projects needed to be treated separately through the zoning process. Chris Hammer agreed and felt that if Chastain cleared up some of the language in their responsibilities within the agreement, their higher cost would be worth it. 

Weikle pointed out that if they were to go with Chastain for the projects, they would ask for clarification on which entity is being billed by the firm. She notes that it currently says the client, which is DeWitt County, when it should be the applicant. 

Weikle added that this project is moving quickly, and the applicants would likely not have a preference over which firm was chosen. The Committee decided to go with Chastain should they make the billing correction. 

The recommendation of Chastain Engineering will now go to a vote at this month's DeWitt County Board Meeting, taking place next Thursday, October 23rd. 

The Committee also discussed standardized plans for decommission when it comes to solar projects that are no longer producing, as well as a path for community complaints. We'll have more on those in the days ahead from the Hart Media Group. 

Each year, a local domestic violence support group hosts an event to honor those who have lost their lives to domestic violence and the survivors.

Ashlyn Burrus with DOVE in DeWitt County indicates that their annual Candlelight Ceremony will take place this Thursday at 6:30 PM at the First Church of the Nazarene in Clinton. She says the event means a lot to victims and their families, and adds that anyone is welcome to attend. 

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and Burrus indicates that events like the Candlelight Ceremony open the floor for important conversations surrounding the topic. She notes that the month is about breaking the silence. 

Attend the Candlelight Ceremony at the First Church of the Nazarene in Clinton this Thursday at 6:30 PM. Learn more about the services offered by DOVE in DeWitt County by visiting doveinc.org or by finding them on Facebook. 
 

If you're going to put a check in the mail, be very cautious and extra diligent while tracking your finances.

That's the message from Sgt. Stew Williams from the Piatt County Sheriff's Office who told the Hart Media Group on the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, what he calls the 'check washing' scam has come across his desk multiple times.

According to Sgt. Williams, for the most part, the Piatt County Sheriff's Department has been able to identify the perpetrators, and a few have been known to law enforcement, even in other areas.

One of the pitfalls with scams is that money or assets lost cannot be recovered in full, if at all. Sgt. Williams notes because this is mostly a local operation, there are ways for victims to get restitution.

Sgt. Williams recommends using online payments as much as possible to pay bills. Be discreet when putting checks or any form of payment in the mail.

The Piatt County Sheriff's Office also is noticing the traditional scams that get seniors continue to be an issue, and Sgt. Williams says those will only continue to advance with the capabilities of artificial intelligence.

Drought conditions are becoming a real concern in parts of central Illinois.

With the harvest underway, farmers are not complaining about the increased combine time; however, if we don't get some rain soon, things could get serious going into the winter months. Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln indicates even aquifers and other water sources are getting low.

According to Shimon, while some places have received enough rain to be in good shape, the vast majority of the State is hurting for moisture.

While the winter season may evoke memories of snow and ice, Shimon indicates those forms of precipitation are really limited in how much moisture they actually put into the ground.

This weekend, we are anticipating some rainfall; however, Shimon indicates the monthly outlook is offering a very dry prediction.

To the question of soil moisture loss during the winter with cold days and less sunlight, Shimon notes the soil moisture loss is not as significant as it is during the April through September time frame.

Shimon joins the WHOW Morning Show again the week prior to Halloween. 

It is open enrollment time for Medicare Part D, and now is the time to make that appointment to see your local advocate to review your plan.

Diane Cusey with Community Care Systems in DeWitt County says her schedule is filling up fast with appointments, so do not wait to get that appointment made.

According to Cusey, seniors will want to make note of some of the changes to this year's plans. She indicates those changes are going to make this a very busy year.

Cusey will be making the rounds across the County to provide access to as many people as possible. Her stops will be parts of the County, mostly in November and December.

Cusey encourages seniors to still try to make an appointment with her - even if their plans are not changing. She indicates there may be better, more affordable plans for people if their circumstances have changed.

Last year, Cusey booked nearly 250 appointments, with half of those having plans adjusted, saving residents over $82,000.  

Community Care Systems has a new office at the Flower Corner building across from Casey's on Route 54. You can contact Cusey to make an appointment by calling 217-518-8010. 

A central Illinois school district is beefing up its e-learning plan this week.

The Maroa-Forsyth Board of Education meets this week, and at the top of the agenda is revisions to its e-learning plan. Superintendent Adam Ibbotson tells the Hart Media Group this is a part of a three-year renewal mandate by the Illinois State Board of Education.

According to Ibbotson, the e-learning plan is getting beefed up in a big way. He explains they worked with the administration to have a more engaged approach, almost across the board. The thought process was there needs to be face-to-face learning taking place, and with the old plan, there was not a lot of that happening.

The plan relies heavily on a student's ability to have internet access. Ibbotson knows technology can sometimes fail and not everyone has access, so there are procedures in place for those circumstances.

Ibboton contends that having e-learning during the school year is better than extending the calendar at the end of the year because learning at the back end of the school calendar is much more challenging.

Ibbotson points out, he modeled the Maroa-Forsyth plan after several neighboring districts that have revamped their plans in recent years. 

The DeWitt County TRIAD Senior Academy will take its week two session on Wednesday to Waynesville. 

Jean Johanns indicates the group will take their program to the Waynesville Methodist Chuch on Wednesday, from 1:30 pm to 3 pm, where the Illinois Attorney General's office will be present at this session to speak on scam awareness.

Sylvia Comfort with DeWitt County TRIAD indicates that the organization was created by sheriff's departments wanting to partner with senior support organizations to make sure that their local seniors could receive the safety training they need. She notes that it started in the 80s; however, it came to DeWitt County in the 2000s.

For the last session, Johanns says they will go to The Farmer City Outreach on October 22nd to hear about technology and how it can be used to retain independence. Seniors can also hear about recognizing the signs of financial abuse at this event. 

Johanns and Comfort emphasize that the Senior Academy program can provide crucial information to seniors. Learn more by finding the DeWitt County TRIAD on Facebook or calling the Sheriff's Office at 217-935-9507.

While it won't rise to the level of the start of the month, the next week or so should be a little warmer than normal.

Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln indicates an above-normal trend is going to last for the next week.

According to Shimon, today should be the warmest day of the week with more above-normal temperatures the remainder of the week.

Shimon reminds, temperatures for this time of the month, during the day, hover in the mid-60s.

It remains very dry in central Illinois. Shimon breaks down the drought conditions setting up in central Illinois later this week. 

Visit weather.gov/Lincoln for more. 

The search continues for a location for a new City Hall, police, and fire station.

Mayor Helen Michelassi indicates a location needs to be set before they can start designing. The Mayor has set a deadline of 90 days to find a location and get estimates for construction. 

A new City Hall, police, and fire station were named as priorities in the strategic plan that was put together last year. 

The development of artificial intelligence, or AI, has exploded over the last few years. 

Connie Miller with the DeWitt Savings Bank explains that scammers have gotten ahold of AI technology, and are using it to create more convincing ways to take advantage of people. 

Miller reminds to be extra wary of emails and phone calls from supposed financial institutions that you are not expecting. She says it can be very easy for someone to steal a bank's logo and fool a victim. 

Scammers are always coming up with new ways to take advantage of people and steal their information or money, and we'll learn more about those in the weeks ahead from the Hart Media Group with Miller. 
 

October is Library Crawl Month, the month in which you are encouraged to visit as many libraries as possible. 

Emily Dunham with the Warner Library in Clinton indicates that you can stop by and pick up a Library Passport, which you can get stamped as you travel around and see all that central Illinois' libraries have to offer. She adds that if you visit five or more, you can enter into a drawing for a prize.

Follow along with all things Warner Library by visiting their website at vwarner.org. You can find the library on most social media platforms by searching for the Vespasian Warner Library as well. 
 

Constellation recently agreed to a deal with Meta that will result in $1 million in donations to local non-profits. 

Mandi Ries with the Neighborhood Care Center indicates that they have been partnering with Constellation for some time now; however, they received an email in April from the company looking to partner together. 

With their limited budget, the Neighborhood Care Center has not had the chance to dream big on any projects, but Ries and Executive Director Cody Monkman took a retreat to discuss and plan what the $45-thousand could be used for. 

The NCC ultimately decided to use the money to insulate and wrap part of the Clinton location that serves as the organization's distribution center. Ries adds part of the change will include Kelly Rempe transitioning to the role of Distribution Center Director. 

Things were not looking good for the Neighborhood Care Center when it came to raising the remaining $5,000. They were pleasantly surprised to end up beating that goal by almost triple. 

With the remaining roughly $8 thousand, Monkman indicates they would like to start an official internship program, and we'll have more on that this weekend on Regional Radio. 

It's National 4-H Week, and one local 4-H leader is touting the success of this year's program so far. 

Henry Craft, 4-H Youth Development Educator with the University of Illinois Extension in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties, explains that this is a great time of the year to sign up for 4-H. At this point, most clubs are starting fresh and electing new officials. 

The mission of 4-H is to build leadership skills in kids, and Craft indicates that some chapters are electing students as young as 11 years old to executive board positions. 

It's not too late to sign up for 4-H. Craft states that dues are $20 for the entire year, and if you reside in DeWitt County, those dues are covered by the DeWitt County 4-H Foundation. 

The Extension is giving a new leadership opportunity to teens in the 4-H Program, and we'll have more on that with Craft next week on Regional Radio. 

To learn more about 4-H in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties, go to extension.illinois.edu/dmp.

The abnormal heat from earlier this month has finally broken, and we should be in store for very fall-like weather moving forward.

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln told the Hart Media Group, a summer-like heat dome set up over the Midwest to close out September and begin October, which was very unusual and unexpected.

According to Shimon, Monday's rains, although not widespread, brought a cool down that will make it feel like fall for the foreseeable future.

According to Shimon, the weekend ahead is looking to be spectacular with minimal rain in the forecast for the next week or so.

It is getting very dry in central Illinois. We'll have more next week on the drought that is starting to set up across the area. Visit weather.gov/Lincoln for more on all things weather information and data. 

Tuesday night at the Clinton City Council meeting, City leadership announced another new business is primed to make DeWitt County its home.

Meyer Utility Structures will go in the former Arcosa Wind Tower site north of the Clinton US Highway 51. City Administrator Tony Harris credits DeWitt County Development Council Executive Director Curt Homann and County leadership for all coming to the table to make this happen.

Mayor Helen Michelassi is proud of how everyone came together to meet the needs of this company and work with them to get set up in DeWitt County.

According to Harris, this new company will bring over 100 new jobs to DeWitt County, and that is very exciting.

The collaboration between the City of Clinton and the DCDC has been a standout for Harris. He has been very pleased with the way everyone is working together and feels the City of Clinton and the County are all going in a positive direction.

Representatives from Meyer presented to the City Council on Tuesday night. Interestingly, Arcosa is the parent company of Meyer - who, once the wind tower manufacturer left - did not sell the facility; instead, it has been preparing for this operation to manufacture electric utility poles.

IL Corn is sharing the results of a Farm Economy Temperature Survey conducted during the Farm Progress Show. Among the questions—“are corn and meat product exports inhibited by the current trade climate?

IL Corn Executive Director Rodney Weinzierl (Wine-Zurl) says the survey is available at ilcorn.org.

The Land of Lincoln Honor Flight will take to the skies for the final time in 2025 on October 21st. There will be 93 veterans from all branches of the military who served during the Vietnam War era. At no charge to them, they will visit their war memorials in Washington D-C and surrounding areas.

It’s all made possible through donations, sponsorships, and fundraisers. Joan Bortolon (BORT’-oh-loan) is president of the L-L-H-F. She says this will be the 76th Mission they have flown, and she’s been on all of them.

For more details on how you can get a veteran signed up for one of the 2026 Land of Lincoln Honor Flights, click here: https://www.landoflincolnhonorflight.org/#/Home

The strength of Illinois 4-H doesn’t happen without a tremendous volunteer base.

Kevin Carey with Illinois 4-H says there are more than 20,200 4-H club members in Illinois.

This is National 4-H Week.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and a local law enforcement official shares his department's approach to the topic. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday, Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers told the Hart Media Group that the Domestic Abuse Cycle is a unique challenge that first responders across the country and world are faced with. He mentions that officers are trying to diagnose and solve an issue that has likely developed over months or years. 

Another challenge when it comes to domestic violence is how hard it can be to notice. Chief Lowers indicates that abuse almost always happens within the home, making it very hard for someone else to identify the behavior. He adds that over the years, laws have been created to protect abuse victims; however, he admits it is not always enough.

The Chief states that their approach to domestic violence situations is to practice compassion and understand that while it is not ideal, it is very common for victims to return to the cycle. He reiterates that although it is challenging, they hold the responsibility of keeping victims safe very highly. 

The actual response to a domestic violence situation from an officer can be a complicated process of investigation, de-escalation, and communication. We'll have more with Chief Lowers on that topic in the days ahead from the Hart Media Group. 

If you or a loved one is a victim of domestic violence, there are a number of local resources you can reach out to, like DOVE Inc., Willow Tree Missions, and HOPE of East Central Illinois.

Reach the Illinois Department of Human Services Domestic Violence Helpline at 877-863-6338 or call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233.
 

It is Fire Prevention Week, and Clinton Fire Fighters are making the rounds through the elementary schools to promote fire safety among the kids.

Wednesday, firefighters were at Clinton Elementary School giving their annual lessons around Fire Prevention Week and giving the kids the chance to go through the firehouse.

That’s Clinton Fire Chief Stephen Page, who is reminding tonight is the Clinton Fire Department's annual Fire Truck Parade starting at 7:15. Chief Page notes the firehouse will be on the square after the parade.

You can follow along with all things Clinton Fire Department by following them on Facebook.

The former Arcosa wind tower building, located just outside Clinton, will now be converted into a facility for building electric poles.

Representatives from Meyer Utility Structures were at Tuesday night's Clinton City Council meeting. City Administrator Tony Harris told the Council it was truly a team effort to bring Meyer to the former Arcosa wind tower building.

Dan Coletta, Senior HR Director for Meyer Utility Structures, told the Council Meyer Utility Structures has been preparing the site for just this operation.

Thanks to major development of the electrical grid across the country, Coletta indicates the growing need for utility structures makes their business very sustainable.

Coletta indicates the structures offered by Meyer range from types and heights. He expressed the excitement of Meyer to be coming to Clinton.

A local law enforcement official is taking the time to remind seniors of how to stay safe physically and financially. 

DeWitt County Sheriff Mike Walker indicates that he has worked with the TRIAD program for some time now and feels that it's always worthwhile to teach the elderly how they can prevent dangers like falls or financial abuse. He says TRIAD sessions will take place over the next three Wednesdays throughout DeWitt County. 

The Sheriff says much of the task at hand is spreading awareness for seniors. He adds that many young people get information from sources like the internet, which many seniors don't or are unable to access. 

Sheriff Walker points out that the TRIAD program used to host all three sessions in a single location; however, they have changed it to give better access to the information to seniors all throughout the County. 

The first TRIAD session of 2025 takes place on Wednesday, October 8th, at the Warner Library in Clinton, at 1:30 PM. 
 

A high-volume intersection in Farmer City will be repaved thanks to a grant from the State of Illinois.

On the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, City Manager for the City of Farmer City, Taylor Baxter, told the Hart Media Group, the grant for roughly $750,000 was highly competitive, and he was very excited Friday afternoon when he received the notice they were awarded the funding.

According to Baxter, the intersection of Plum and Route 150 in Farmer City is heavily trafficked - especially by heavy machinery and has natural wear and tear that needs to be addressed.

Baxter speculates one of the reasons they potentially received the grant was because it is a State Highway, but also because the project was nearly ready to go from a planning perspective.

Baxter anticipates the work getting started in the spring. The Farmer City City Council was made aware of the grant at its Monday meeting.

The Midwest shares a great history with the games of baseball and softball, like the historic Duffy Bass Field right in Normal, IL. 

Micaela Harris with the McLean County Museum of History explains that soon they will introduce an exhibit called "More Than a Game: A Community History of Baseball and Softball." She says it will feature glimpses of the games from the 1920s and how the sports grew into America's Pastime. 

A piece of the exhibit that Harris is most excited for is a recreation of a scoreboard that was housed on the side of the Pantagraph Newspaper in Bloomington. She notes people would gather all around for operators to change the signs and follow along with Major League games. 

Harris indicates that they have struggled to fit all of the information that they have into just a single exhibit. She adds that they even asked community members to come in and share their personal baseball and softball stories and histories. 

The "More Than a Game: A Community History of Baseball and Softball" Exhibit will be coming to the McLean County Museum of History next year. Learn more by visiting mchistory.org. 
 

Cold temperatures and snow will be here before we know it, and the Clinton Chamber is getting ready. 

Janice Petersen, Executive Director of the Chamber, indicates that they try to get planning for the annual Christmas Parade early, which includes looking for floats and a Grand Marshall. She notes that it will take place on December 6th at 2 PM. 

If you'd like to nominate someone for Grand Marshall, Petersen says you can fill out a form on their website. When it comes to parade entries, she mentions that they need to know what kind of entry you have and your contact information. 

The deadline for parade entries and Grand Marshall nominations is November 15th. Learn more at clintonilchamber.org. 
 

4-H students in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties can participate in a new curriculum, all about building with plastic bricks. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Monday, Henry Craft, 4-H Youth Development Educator with the University of Illinois Extension, told Regional Radio that this new curriculum is called Creating With Building Bricks, and empowers students to explore STEM skills alongside their creativity and imagination. 

Building with Legos is not a new practice when it comes to 4-H. Craft points out that they have clubs like the Master Builders in Farmer City, but now 4-H is making it an official curriculum. 

Craft notes that one of the major benefits of the 4-H curriculum is the presence of experts who ensure that good learning techniques and skills are woven into the fabric of the programming. 

The new 4-H year is underway, but it's not too late to sign your student up for 4-H in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties. Learn more by visiting extension.illinois.edu/dmp. 
 

A big announcement will be coming to this month's Clinton City Council Meeting involving a new business in the community. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Monday, DeWitt County Development Council Executive Director Curt Homann told Regional Radio that a new business will be establishing itself in Clinton, and they will be going public with the decision at Tuesday night's Clinton City Council Meeting at 7 PM. 

Homann was very involved in the process of bringing Kwik Wall to Clinton as well. He says that the attentiveness and care that is offered by the DCDC and our local governments were very appealing to both Kwik Wall and the soon-to-be-announced business. 

The DCDC works to improve economic development all throughout DeWitt County, not just in Clinton, and Homann says Farmer City has a very bright future ahead of it. He points to the development of the Food Co-Op as an example. 

Follow along with the DeWitt County Development Council on their Facebook page or give them a call at 217-935-5271.

The Clinton City Council Meeting is on Tuesday, October 7th, at 7 PM at City Hall, located at 118 W Washington Street in Clinton. 
 

The DeWitt County TRIAD's annual Senior Academy begins later this week.

The Senior Academies are a series of information seminars held three times during October. Jean Johanns with TRIAD explains they begin this Wednesday, October 8, and will be held in Clinton at the Warner Library. 

On Wednesday, Oct. 15, the series moves to Waynesville. Johanns indicates more scam awareness information will be presented.

The final seminar is on Wednesday, Oct. 22, in Farmer City, and Johanns says this is a must-attend. There will be a great presentation on utilizing technology to remain independent.

You can learn more at the DeWitt County TRIAD Facebook page. 

Many of Clinton's non-profits set up booths at the Apple N' Pork festival each year, but in the past, The Vault has not been one of those groups. 

Wendy DeMent, Executive Director of The Vault explains that all of that changed this year when they decided that funnel cakes would be the avenue towards funding for this year's programs. She says that although the booth was a last-minute decision, it was a steady line all day. 

DeMent indicates that it can take eight or more people to keep the funnel cake tent going in a single shift. She adds it's all of the hard-working volunteers that allow funds raised to go back into the Vault's programming. 

The Vault semester is underway, and DeMent notes they have already had record-breaking attendance, but still reminds that it's not too late to sign your student up. 

The Vault is a youth development-focused nonprofit located on Clinton Square. Learn more about programming opportunities by visiting thevaultclinton.org or by finding The Vault on Facebook.

Last month, area schools approved FY 26 budgets, and Heyworth Schools leadership is pleased with the way things are shaping up for them.

Superintendent Dr. Lisa Taylor indicates the budget is in good shape, and a surprise to the budget this year was a private contribution for the ag program.

According to Dr. Taylor, the McLean County one-cent sales tax dollars are going to provide a nice infusion of cash to the budget. She reminds they can do several things with those dollars.

Local property taxes make up the majority of the Heyworth budget. Dr. Taylor indicates those are much steadier and reliable than any other revenue source.

While Heyworth has done a lot with its facilities in recent years, Dr. Taylor explains there are going to be things that will need to be addressed in the next few years.

Those who annually attend the Apple n' Pork Festival have become familiar with seeing Mr. Abraham Lincoln on the Homestead grounds of the CH Moore Mansion.

Mr. Lincoln points out though, that house was not actually ever occupied by Mr. Moore.

One of the similarities between CH Moore and Mr. Lincoln was a passion for books and reading. Mr Lincoln points out Moore had one of the largest collections of books in downstate Illinois.

Moore was very good with real estate. Mr. Lincoln explains because of his time in the service, he was gifted land by the US government and Moore helped arrange for him to purchase land in Iowa.

During the weekend of the Apple n' Pork Festival, Mr. Lincoln will present to those in attendance on the front lawn of the Homestead grounds. A familiar undertone of his presentations is that while CH Moore and Lincoln got along quite well, they didn't always agree on everything.

Mr. Lincoln's ties to Clinton and central Illinois are well documented - including at the DeWitt County Museum and CH Moore Mansion during the Apple n' Pork Festival. 

Next year's Apple n' Pork Festival will fall Sept. 26  and 27. 

The boxes of gingerbread cookies folks carry around the grounds of the Apple n' Pork Festival every year may be as common as a bowl of ham and beans or a baked potato.

But it's a must-have for hundreds, and whether they realize it or not, they are supporting the Waynesville Women's Club. Patty Klemm with the Waynesville Women's Club explains the Apple n' Pork Festival helps them support many efforts within the Waynesville community.

According to Klemm, preparing for the Apple n' Pork Festival is quite the task. This year, they were able to have the students in the high school German Club help with the weekend Festival tasks.

Klemm indicates it has been a lot of fun to be able to fund projects big and small and watch them better the community. She emphasizes the things they do for the community would not be possible without the Apple n' Pork Festival. 

The Waynesville Women's Club meets at the Waynesville Methodist Church. Klemm emphasizes they are not a religious group; they rent the building. You can contact her or reach out to anyone in Waynesville to learn more about the group.

Last month, the Bement school district approved a nearly $2-million project to connect two of its buildings on its campus in the small Piatt County town.

Part of the ability to do a project like that was private donors but also financial stability within the district. Superintendent Mary Vogt calls herself blessed thanks to the efforts of her predecessor, Dr Shiela Greenwood, who helped get the district back on solid financial footing.

According to Vogt, the district budget is very healthy, with a projected $ 7 million in the bank. It is that message that she and the Board of Education are trying to convey to their community, despite heavy rumors to the contrary.

The Bement budget is largely funded by local dollars. Vogt indicates those dollars are very steady and reliable.

Bement recently entered into separate co-ops for high school football and wrestling. Vogt says it was those co-ops that have led some in the community to question the financial health of the district. 

The University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine is hosting an open house this weekend. Third-year student Savannah Limberg is helping organize the event.

The open house is Sunday, October 5, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The U of I College of Vet Medicine is located at 2001 Lincoln Avenue in Urbana.

More details at vetmed.illinois.edu/openhouse.

Another big attendance year for the Illinois State Fair - 723,079 - the second-largest turnout in its history.

The Megan Moroney concert broke the Grandstand attendance record set last year by Lil Wayne with 15,532 tickets sold. Rebecca Clark is the State Fair Manager.

The Du Quoin State Fair drew 282,202 people, breaking the previous record set in 2024.

The 2026 Illinois State Fair runs August 13 – 23 followed by the Du Quoin State Fair August 28 – September 7.

It is very apparent that people all over the Country have been struggling with increased energy costs. 

Anita Russell with Community Action explains that they have been having many people reach out to them in pursuit of help with their energy bills, especially with the extreme heat we have been experiencing. She says that even if you are on the waiting list for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, Ameren still has cost-saving opportunities for you. 

Russell says that it is their goal and Ameren's to keep you from being disconnected. She reminds that as you look at your energy bills, it is not Ameren that decides the cost of electricity. 

To learn more about LIHEAP and other energy assistance programs through Community Action, visit capcil.info. 
 

When your school is a part of a football co-op, it can make your Homecoming celebration a little different. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, Mt. Pulaski Superintendent Jason Spang told Regional Radio that while their Homecoming celebration does share similarities with other schools, their football co-op with Unity Christian means they don't get to host a game this Friday. He indicates that it will be replaced with a home soccer game this Thursday. 

Spang mentions that Homecoming is not just a celebration for high schoolers. Students in the entire district, as well as former Mt. Pulaski Hilltoppers, are engaging with schools and showing their pride. 

The Hilltoppers Soccer Team will take on the Blue Ridge Knights on Thursday evening at 4:30 PM to celebrate Homecoming.

Learn more about this week's celebrations in Mt. Pulaski by finding Mt. Pulaski Schools on Facebook or visiting mtpulaski.k12.il.us. 

A local financial coach is sounding the alarm for those looking for love online or those looking find a good deal online.

A lonely heart may desperately try to find love in unconventional places and Connie Miller from DeWitt Savings Bank indicates online romances just might be a scam. 

According to Miller, Facebook can be a real trap in a lot of ways. She explains people can be victims to crimes from scammers on Facebook Marketplace or the item advertised isn't real and an electronic payment has already been made.

Retrieving money lost through a Facebook scam isn't always a guarantee. While sometimes that money can be recovered, Miller indicates there are some forms of electronic payment that they cannot recover. She encourages contacting your financial institution as soon as you think you may have been a victim of a scam.

She also encourages verifying the item or items you want to purchase off a site like Facebook Marketplace is, in fact, real.